Introduction
Cheese Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach in a Creamy Tomato Sauce is a comforting, hearty dish that combines tender pasta, savory sausage, and fresh spinach in a rich, creamy tomato base. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but indulgent enough to serve guests—an irresistible one-pan meal packed with flavor.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Tortellini is a traditional Italian pasta from the Emilia-Romagna region, known for being stuffed with cheese or meats. Pairing it with sausage and creamy tomato sauce is a more modern Italian-American adaptation, blending authentic Italian flavors with the creamy, indulgent style popular in American kitchens. Spinach adds freshness, making it a balanced and satisfying dish.
Ingredients Quantity
- 1 package (20 oz) cheese tortellini (fresh or refrigerated)
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Optional Additions
- Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra vegetables.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Use chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner version.
- Top with mozzarella or provolone and broil for a baked pasta twist.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the tortellini—it cooks quickly and should be tender but firm.
- Brown the sausage well to deepen the flavor of the sauce.
- Add the spinach at the end so it wilts without becoming mushy.
- Reserve some pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
Instructions
- Cook the tortellini according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles, about 6–7 minutes.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until softened and fragrant.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavor.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream. Simmer gently until sauce thickens slightly.
- Add spinach and cook until just wilted.
- Stir in the cooked tortellini and toss gently to coat.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Description
This dish is creamy, savory, and comforting. The cheesy tortellini is perfectly balanced by the spicy sausage, fresh spinach, and rich tomato cream sauce. Every forkful delivers a hearty, indulgent flavor that feels like comfort food at its best.
Nutritional Information (per serving, 1 of 6)
- Calories: ~520
- Protein: 24g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 8g
Conclusion and Recommendation
Cheese Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach in a Creamy Tomato Sauce is a must-try for pasta lovers. It’s a full, satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes and is guaranteed to be a family favorite.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
For a lighter version, try turkey sausage, low-fat cream, and whole wheat tortellini. Add more vegetables like bell peppers or kale for extra nutrition while still keeping the dish indulgent and satisfying.